June 2015

CONTENTS

A quarterly newsletter from the Embassy of Japan, India

Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) Visits India P-2

Defence Minister of India Visits Japan P-5

Address by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe at the Asian-African Summit 2015 P-6

Toward an Alliance of Hope P-8

Videos on Japan's Foreign Policy P-9

Japan Participates in the G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting P-10

Rajasthan Chief Minister Visits Japan P-11

Padma Bhushan conferred on Mr. Saichiro Misumi, Former Managing Director, Japan-India Association P-12

Japanese Imperial Decorations Conferred upon 4 Indians P-12

Exploring Japan: Sights of Summer in Japan P-13

Japan. Endless Discovery P-14

Updates from Consulates P-16

Embassy of Japan offers the “Hello Japan Program” P-20

(Photo: Press Information Bureau, India)

Mr. Yoichi Miyazawa, Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), paid a

courtesy call on Mr. Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, during his visit to

India from April 27 to May 1, 2015

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe received a courtesy call from the Defence Minister of India, Mr. Manohar Parrikar, at the Prime Minister's Office, on March 30, 2015

(Photo: Cabinet Public Relations Office, Government of Japan)

Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) Visits India

1. Meeting with Prime Minister Modi

Both Ministers agreed to further strengthen Japan Plus to

facilitate Japan's investment in India, promote investment by

enhancing Japan Industrial Townships, cooperate in the fields of

infrastructure, resources, energy, and the environment, and

promote economic partnership.

Minister Miyazawa suggested the introduction of Shinkansen

system into India's system of high-speed railways and hand-

delivered an “action plan” regarding Japan's investment in India

by the 25 companies with representatives accompanying

Minister Miyazawa, which were very well received by Prime

Minister Modi.

2. Meeting with key persons from Indian central

governments

(1) Minister Miyazawa and Ms. Sitharaman, Minister of

State for Commerce and Industry

At a bilateral meeting with Ms. Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of

State for Commerce and Industry, the Ministers exchanged a

wide variety of opinions concerning the enhancement of the

investment environment for Japanese enterprises, bilateral

cooperation in the field of intellectual property aimed at the

acceleration of procedures for patent examinations, and

aggressive action towards the realization of RCEP, and confirmed

that METI and the Indian Ministry of Commerce and Industry

will lead the deepening of the economic relationship between

Japan and India.

(Photo: Press Information Bureau, India)

From April 27 to May 1, 2015, Mr. Yoichi Miyazawa, Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), visited India along with

representatives from 25 companies and reached agreement with the Indian government on the doubling of Japan's investment in India

and the number of Japanese companies expanding into India, concrete actions aimed at further cooperation in the fields of IT and

infrastructure, and promotion of economic integration around the Indo-Pacific region from the Asia-Pacific to the Indian Ocean. This

is the first high level agreement between the government and private sector of Japan with the Government of India.

(2) Minister Miyazawa and Mr. Prasad, Minister of

Communications and Information Technology

At a bilateral meeting with Mr. Ravi Shankar Prasad, Minister of

Communications and Information Technology, both sides agreed

to deepen bilateral cooperation in the IT and electronics

industries and promote the active use of Indian IT human

resources by Japanese companies and concluded a memorandum

concerning the “New development of Japan-India Information

Technology Cooperation.”

(3) Minister Miyazawa and Mr. Goyal, Minister of State for

Power, Coal, New and Renewable Energy

Japan Calling2

Minister Miyazawa and Mr. Goyal, Minister of State for Power, Coal, New and

Renewable Energy

Minister Miyazawa and Mr. Prasad, Minister of Communications and

Information Technology

Minister Miyazawa hand-delivered a Japanese proposal to Mr. Naidu, Chief

Minister of the State Government of Andhra Pradesh

At the bilateral meeting with Mr. Piyush Goyal, Minister of State

for Power, Coal, New and Renewable Energy, the two Ministers

agreed that the Japan-India Energy Dialogue, for which Minister

Miyazawa and his Indian counterpart Minister Goyal are to serve

as co-chairs, would be held in Japan this year, in order to deepen

the cooperative relationship between Japan and India in the field

of energy. In addition, they agreed that, as for coal-fired thermal

power, promotion of further efficiency is most important in light

of measures against global warming, and that Japanese

technology could contribute to that in India.

(4) Minister Miyazawa and Mr. Pradhan, Minister of State

for Petroleum and Natural Gas

At the bilateral meeting with Mr. Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister

of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas, the two Ministers agreed

to promote cooperation in areas such as the joint procurement of

LNG and research on methane hydrate in the field of petroleum

and natural gas, and the importance of requiring more flexible

destination clauses in contracts concerning the procurement of

LNG.

3. Meeting with Mr. Nara Chandrababu Naidu, Chief

Minister of the State Government of Andhra Pradesh (AP)

Based on the memorandum concluded between the state and

METI in November 2014, the two Ministers confirmed that they

would promote projects in the fields of electricity infrastructure,

industrial investment, and urban development. In addition,

Minister Miyazawa hand-delivered a Japanese proposal

concerning the project for the development of a new AP state

capital to Chief Minister Naidu. Meanwhile, Chief Minister

Naidu expressed great expectation with regard to the

participation of the Japanese government and Japanese

companies in industrial development and the development of a

new AP state capital.

4. The India-Japan Public-Private Investment & Trade

Promotion Policy Dialogue

Minister Miyazawa, 25 Japanese enterprises that accompanied

the Minister, Ms. Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of State for

Commerce and Industry, relevant ministries of India, state

governments, and Indian enterprises were brought together to

exchange views on a wide range of themes including the

promotion of investment and trade, and representatives of the

Japanese enterprises that accompanied the Minister made

positive comments on the expectations for the markets in India

and the importance of improvements in the business

environment. Also, it was agreed that this Dialogue would

become an annual event in the future.

5. Signing of a Joint Statement

The two Ministers signed the Action Agenda for India-Japan

Investment and Trade Promotion and Indo-Pacific Economic

Integration. The Action Agenda included mutual approval of the

following points:

Japan Calling 3

Minister Miyazawa and Mr. Pradhan, Minister of State for Petroleum and

Natural Gas

4 Japan Calling

At IIT Delhi, which produces world-class IT engineers, Minister

Miyazawa discussed the importance of developing human

resources from among the younger generations of people in both

countries and the interaction between human resources with

Director Prof. R. K. Shevgaonkar in order to promote the

proactive use of high-level Indian IT human resources by

Japanese companies. Minister Miyazawa also explained the

attractiveness of Japan and the globalized situation of Japanese

companies and conducted high-level recruitment of IT human

resources by promoting employment at Japanese companies, at a

presentation for graduate students at IIT Delhi.

7. India-Japan Energy Forum

At the India-Japan Energy Forum, Minister Miyazawa welcomed

the fact that India was planning to aggressively invest in energy

infrastructure under the initiative called Modinomics, and also

expressed that it was important for both nations, which are high

energy consuming nations, to promote clean coal technology,

electric power system stabilization technology, and energy-

saving technology through public-private partnerships.

8. India-Japan IT-BPM Business Forum

At the IT-BPM Business Forum, Minister Miyazawa stressed that

decisions made by companies' top management were the key to

practical use of Indian IT by Japanese companies.

1) The identification of 11 candidate sites for Japan Industrial

Townships and initiation of the Japan Industrial Township

Advance Soft Skills Development Project, 2) investment

promotion and acceleration of development of infrastructure, 3)

new development in the cooperation between the IT & electronics

industries of both countries, 4) strengthening of cooperation with

strategic states in India, and 5) promotion of Indo-Pacific

Economic Integration were approved by both sides in the Action

Agenda.

6. Speech at the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT

Delhi)

Minister Miyazawa and Ms. Sitharaman, Minister of State for Commerce and

Industry, at a signing ceremony of the Action Agenda for India-Japan

Investment and Trade Promotion and Indo-Pacific Economic Integration

The Defence Minister of India, Mr. Manohar Parrikar, paid a bilateral visit to

Japan from 29 March to 1 April 2015, at the invitation of the Minister of

Defense of Japan, Mr. Gen Nakatani. The two Ministers held a Defence

Ministerial Meeting on March 30, 2015 in Tokyo.

The meeting was held in a constructive, friendly and forward looking

atmosphere. The two Ministers briefed each other on the security

environment surrounding each country and their respective defence policies.

They reviewed strategic developments relating to international security

situation with emphasis on the inter-connected Asia-Pacific and Indian Ocean

regions. They were of the view that in the inter-connected Indo-Pacific

region, India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership has a key role in

maintaining peace and stability in the region. Minister Nakatani briefed on

Japan's recent efforts related to Japan's security policy. Minister Parrikar

appreciated the detailed briefing.

The two Ministers welcomed the progress made in bilateral defence

exchanges following the signing of Memorandum of Cooperation and

Exchanges in the Field of Defence during the visit of Prime Minister

Narendra Modi to Japan in September 2014 and emphasized the need to

further strengthen and elevate bilateral defence relations. They appreciated

on-going maritime cooperation as exemplified by bilateral Japan-India

Maritime Exercises and participation of Japan Maritime Self Defense Force

in India-US Joint Naval Exercises “Malabar 14” in July 2014, which was held

off the coast of Japan.

The two Defence Ministers noted the progress made in discussion in the Joint

Working Group (JWG) on Defence Equipment and Technology

Cooperation(JWG-DETC). They were of the view that India and Japan have

the potential in the area of defence equipment and technology cooperation,

which can emerge as a key pillar of bilateral defence relations. They

exchanged views on potential projects for cooperation in this area and

emphasized the need to pursue mutually beneficial future cooperation

projects.

In order to further enhance the cooperative relations in India-Japan Special

Strategic and Global Partnership between the defence authorities, the two

Defence Minister of India Visits Japan

Defence Minister of India, Mr. Manohar Parrikar, shaking hands with his Japanese counterpart, Mr. Gen Nakatani, during a Defence Ministerial Meeting of the two countries, on 30 March 2015, in Tokyo.

(Photo: Ministry of Defence, Government of India) (Photo: Cabinet Public Relations Office, Government of Japan)

Ministers shared views to conduct cooperation and exchanges, including:

i. Continue the high-level exchanges including the Ministerial meeting on

an annual basis;

a) The Defense Minsiter of Japan will visit India in 2016.

b) Hold the 4th Vice-Minister/Defence Secretary level Defence Policy

Dialogue and the 3rd Vice-Minister/Secretary level “2 plus 2”

dialogue in Delhi at the beginning of April, 2015.

c) Visits by Service Chiefs on reciprocal basis.

ii. Continue to promote exchanges on UN Peacekeeping Operations

between Centre for UN Peacekeeping (CUNPK) of the Indian Army and

Japan Peacekeeping Training and Research Center (JPC) of Joint Staff

College, Central Readiness Force (CRF) of Japan Ground Self Defense

Force (JGSDF);

iii. Continue to conduct bilateral exercises between Japan Maritime Force's

and Indian Navy on a regular basis;

iv. Conduct expert exchanges in Humanitarian Assistance/Disaster Relief

and Counter Terrorism between both Indian Army and Japan Ground Self

Defense Force (JGSDF);

v. Conduct staff talks, professional exchanges of test-pilots between Japan

Air-Self Force and Indian Air Force and exchanges between their air

transport squadrons; and

vi. Enhance discussions on future cooperation in defence equipment and

technology.

Minister Parrikar thanked Minister Nakatani for the gracious welcome and

hospitality extended to him and members of the Indian delegation during his

visit to Japan.

Minister Parrikar also paid a courtesy call on the Prime Minister of Japan, Mr.

Shinzo Abe, on March 30, 2015, and had a meeting with the Foreign Minister

of Japan, Mr. Fumio Kishida, on March 31, 2015.

Japan Calling 5

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe received a courtesy call from the Defence Minister of India, Mr. Manohar Parrikar, at the Prime Minister's Office, on March 30, 2015

Address by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe at the Asian-African Summit 2015

Japan Calling

Let me first extend my heartfelt congratulations to Your

Excellency President Joko Widodo and all those involved in

Indonesia for successfully hosting this entire gathering to

commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Bandung Conference.

It makes me proud to stand here representing a nation that is a

member of the group of Asian and African countries.

Live and Let Live

"Live and let live." This is what President Soekarno said. And this

pledge representing the Bandung spirit is still common to us now,

60 years later.

Since ancient times, Asia and Africa have given birth to, and

spread throughout the rest of the world, a variety of ideas and

religions. The spirit of generosity, one that cherishes diversity

among us, is an important common asset we should be proud of.

In keeping with this same spirit, it was our friends in Asia and

Africa who propelled Japan after the Second World War to make

possible our reentry into the international community. To those

friends of ours, let me take this opportunity to extend our heartfelt

gratitude.

History made it inevitable, one could say, for those countries

gathered here three score years ago to show their strong unity,

since our forefathers then had a common wish, a wish for peace.

Let's Tackle Them Together

And now, as we again gather in the same place, we share a great

many more common risks than we did sixty years ago.

We should never allow to go unchecked the use of force by the

mightier to twist the weaker around. The wisdom of our

forefathers in Bandung was that the rule of law should protect the

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe giving a speech at the Asian African Conference

6

On April 22, 2015, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe attended the Summit Commemorating the 60th Anniversary of the Asian African Conference 1955 (Bandung Conference,) held in Jakarta, the Republic of Indonesia.

Prime Minister Abe gave a speech at the conference (complete text given below):

Prime Minister attending a commemorative photograph session

(Photos: Cabinet Public Relations Office, Government of Japan)

Japan Calling

dignity of sovereign nations, be they large or small.

Despicable terrorism is becoming widespread throughout the

world. We must give no haven to terrorists anywhere in the world.

National borders are meaningless in the face of infectious diseases

or natural disasters. Climate change has exposed fragile island

nations to the risk of not surviving, or of even disappearing. No

single nation alone can solve such problems.

Let us tackle them together.

Once again, we must show our strong unity to the rest of the world.

Japan's Resolve

Japan is resolved, in these circumstances, to continue to do its

utmost from now on, just as it has thus far.

"Refraining from acts or threats of aggression or the use of force

against the territorial integrity or political independence of any

country."

"Settlement of all international disputes by peaceful means...."

Those are some of the principles Bandung affirmed. And Japan,

with feelings of deep remorse over the past war, made a pledge to

remain a nation always adhering to those very principles

throughout, no matter what the circumstances.

Japan also resolved that among Asian and African countries

seeking peace and prosperity under those Bandung principles, we

should stand at the forefront.

Hence started our journey. It brought us first to India sixty years

ago, where we perspired together with local farmers to build their

capacities on how to operate farm machines. It also took us to Sri

Lanka, where, together with the local people, we fought against an

epidemic troubling livestock farmers.

And then the journey took us to Africa, where we have been

sharing with the local people both the work ethic and the wisdom

found in our manufacturing, proudly developed on our factory

shop floors. The idea of kaizen has taken root in Ethiopia, where a

workshop with that very name has greatly improved labor

productivity.

In 1993, Japan launched the TICAD process, inviting heads of

state from Africa over to Japan. That is a forum where we discuss

our future with each other.

Sixty years have brought our calendar full circle and have made

the world landscape dramatically different.

Now it is Asia, and it is also Africa, more than anywhere else,

where you find the spirit of growth in the breeze, together with the

rich soil of dynamic growth potential.

7

I say to you that Asian and African nations are no longer Japan's

aid recipients. They are Japan's partners for growth.

Next year's TICAD meeting will be the first to take place on the

soil of Africa, which is so full of energy. Whether we build up

human capacities or infrastructure, all will be an investment into

the future.

Let's Prosper Together

Let us prosper together.

The frontiers of Asia and Africa are limitless.

We must build a market that is open and dynamic. We must turn

that market, or that frontier, into soil that promises prosperity for

our children and our grandchildren. The TPP, the RCEP and the

FTAAP -- in my view will all eventually head toward Africa.

Traction for growth is always found in people. The diversity of

people in any country must be harnessed to become an engine, and

never a distraction, for powerful growth. Japan stands behind the

empowerment of women. Hand in hand with the young and

ambitious in Asia and Africa, we will foster them into a generation

that will shoulder their countries' industrial development.

Japan's resolve is to turn growth in Asia and Africa into an

enduring, not ephemeral, event. With that resolve in mind, over

the next five years, we are going to help as many as three hundred

and fifty thousand people throughout the region acquire

technology expertise and industrial knowledge.

Conclusion

Ladies and gentlemen, the variety among our countries is

manifold. Our political systems differ. Our levels of economic

development are not the same. Our cultures are distinct from one

another. No one society looks the same as any other.

Still, sixty years ago, President Soekarno called on the delegates

that had gathered to think about the following.

"What harm is in diversity, when there is unity in desire?"

Indeed, we face a whole host of risks in common. The fact, once

recognized, should bind us easily in this "unity in diversity."

To cite President Soekarno once again, "we Asians and Africans

must be united" to solve the diverse range of difficulties as we face

today.

Let us all cherish our rich diversity. And let us together build peace

and prosperity, shall we not, for our children, and for our children's

children.

Thank you very much.

At World War II's close in the Pacific, we Japanese, with

feelings of deep remorse, embarked on the path of rebuilding

and renewing our country. Our predecessors' actions brought

great suffering to Asia's peoples, and we must never avert our

eyes from that. I uphold the views expressed by Japan's

previous prime ministers in this regard.

Given this recognition and remorse, we Japanese have

believed for decades that we must do all that we can to

contribute to Asia's development. We must spare no effort in

working for the region's peace and prosperity.

I am proud of the path that we have taken, but we did not walk

that path alone. Seventy years ago, Japan had been reduced to

ashes, and each and every month, citizens of the United States

sent and brought gifts like milk for our children, warm

sweaters, and even goats. Yes, 2,036 American goats came to

Japan in the years right after the war.

Former enemies had become close friends.

And it was Japan that benefited earliest from the postwar

international system that the US fostered by opening up its

own market and calling for a liberal world economy. From the

1980s onward, we have seen the rise of the Republic of Korea,

Taiwan, the ASEAN countries, and, before long, China—all

taking the path of economic development enabled by the open

world order created by the US.

Japan, to be sure, did not stand idly by; it poured in capital and

technologies to support these countries' growth. Both the US

and Japan fostered prosperity—the seedbed for peace—in the

region. Today, the US and Japan recognise that they must

continue to take the lead in fostering a rules-based

international economic order—fair, dynamic, and

sustainable—within which all countries can flourish, free

from the arbitrary intentions of any national government.

In the world's great growth centre, the Pacific market, we

cannot overlook sweatshops or environmental burdens.

Nor can we simply allow free-riders to weaken intellectual

property. Instead, we must spread and nurture our shared

values: the rule of law, democracy, and freedom.

That is exactly what the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) is all

The Trans-Pacific Partnership's strategic value extends far beyond the economic benefits it promises

Toward an Alliance of Hope

about. The TPP's strategic

value extends far beyond

the economic benefits it

promises. It is also about

t u rn ing an a rea tha t

accounts for 40% of the

world economy and one-

third of global trade into a

region of lasting peace and

prosperity for our children

and theirs. As for US-

Japan negotiations, the

goal is near. Let us bring

the TPP to a successful

conclusion through our

joint leadership.

I know how difficult this path has been. Twenty years ago, I

myself opposed opening Japan's agricultural market. I even

joined farmers' representatives in a rally in front of Japan's

Diet.

But Japan's agriculture sector has declined over the last two

decades. Our farmers' average age has increased by ten years,

to more than 66. If our agriculture sector is to survive, we must

follow through on sweeping reforms, including to our

agricultural cooperatives, which have not changed in 60 years.

Change is coming to Japanese business, too. Corporate

governance in Japan is now fully in line with global standards

because we made it stronger. And I am spearheading

regulatory overhauls in such sectors as medicine and energy as

well.

Moreover, I am determined to do whatever it takes to reverse

the decline in Japan's labour force. We are changing some of

our old habits; in particular, we are empowering women to

become more actively engaged in all walks of life.

In short, Japan is in the midst of a far-reaching transition to a

more open future. We are determined to press ahead with the

structural reforms needed to succeed.

But reform requires the continuation of the peace and security

that is the bequest of US leadership. My grandfather,

Nobusuke Kishi, chose the path of democracy and alliance

with the US when he was prime minister in the 1950s.

By: Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan

(Photo: Cabinet Public Relations Office, Government of Japan)

Mr. Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan

Japan Calling8

Together with the US and other like-minded democracies, we won the Cold

War. I intend to stick to that path; indeed, there is no alternative to it.

Our two countries need to make every effort to strengthen our ties. This is why I

support America's strategic “rebalancing” to enhance peace and security in the

Asia-Pacific region. Japan will support this effort first, last, and throughout.

Japan is doing so by deepening its strategic relations with Australia and India,

and we are enhancing our cooperation with the ASEAN countries and the

Republic of Korea. Adding these partners to the central pillar of the US-Japan

alliance will strengthen stability throughout the region. And now Japan will

provide up to $2.8 billion dollars to help improve US bases on Guam, which

will have even greater strategic significance in the future.

Regarding Asia's ongoing maritime disputes, let me underscore my

government's three principles. First, states must stake their territorial claims on

the basis of international law. Second, they must not use force or coercion to

press their claims. And, third, they must settle all disputes by peaceful means.

We must make the vast seas stretching from the Pacific to the Indian Oceans a

zone of peace and freedom, where all adhere to the rule of law. For this reason,

too, it is our responsibility to fortify the US-Japan alliance.

That is why we are working hard to enhance the legislative foundations of our

security. These enhanced legislative foundations should make cooperation

between the US military and Japan's Self-Defense Forces even stronger, and

the alliance still more solid, providing credible deterrence in the service of

peace in the region. Once these legal changes—the most sweeping in our post-

war history—are in place by this summer, Japan will be better able to provide a

seamless response for all levels of crisis.

The new Defense Cooperation Guidelines between the US and Japan will serve

the same purpose, and help secure peace in the region for years to come.

Finally, Japan is ever more willing to bear its global responsibilities. In the

early 1990s, Japan's Self-Defense Forces removed mines in the Persian Gulf.

For ten years in the Indian Ocean, we supported US operations to stop the flow

of terrorists and arms. In Cambodia, the Golan Heights, Iraq, Haiti, and South

Sudan, members of our Self-Defense Forces provided humanitarian support

and participated in peace-keeping operations. Some 50,000 service men and

women have participated in those activities thus far.

Japan's agenda is simple and straightforward: reform at home and proactive

contributions to global peace based on the principle of international

cooperation. It is an agenda that promises to lead Japan—and Asia—into a

more stable and prosperous future.

(Copyright: Project Syndicate 2015; ) www.project-syndicate.org

(This article first appeared in India in The Financial Express, New Delhi,

May 8, 2015: http://www.project-syndicate.org/commentary/japan-us-alliance-asia-

stability-by-shinzo-abe-2015-05)

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Communication and Reconciliation in the Post War Era

Japan-China Relations: Towards a Mutually Beneficial Relationship Based on Common Strategic Interest

Pursuing a Forward-Looking Relationship between Japan and the Republic of Korea

Proactive Contribution to Peace: Helping Resolve Global Issues

Japan Calling 9

Watch latest videos on Japan's Foreign Policy at http://www.mofa.go.jp/p_pd/pds/page23e_000381.html

Japan Calling

Japan Participates in the G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting

10

The G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting was held in

Lubeck, Germany, on April 14-15, 2015, where

the Foreign Ministers of Canada, France,

Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom,

the United States, and the High Representative

of the European Union, gathered to address a

number of major international issues that

impact global peace and security. Mr. Fumio

Kishida, Minister for Foreign Affairs, attended

the meeting from Japan.

During the meeting, the G7 leaders expressed

their commitment to stand united in responding

to some of the most pressing issues in the

world. Guided by their shared values and

principles, including democracy, the rule of

law and respect for human rights, they re-

iterated their determination to employ

coordinated efforts and action to uphold

freedom, peace and territorial integrity, and to

tackle challenges including terrorism, social

instability as well as new types of security

threats such as the outbreak of the Ebola virus

disease.

After the meeting, 'the G7 Foreign Ministers'

Meeting Communiqué', 'the G7 Foreign

Ministers' Declaration on Maritime Security',

'Beyond Ebola: a G7 agenda to help prevent

future crises and enhance security in Africa'

and 'the G7 Statement on Non-Proliferation

and Disarmament', respectively, were released. Mr. Fumio Kishida (right), Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, with Dr. Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Federal Foreign Minister of Germany, in Lubeck

Mr. Kishida (1st from right) attends the G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Lubeck

Mr. Kishida (3rd from left) with his counterparts from G7 countries, in Lubeck

(Photos: Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Japan)(More information is available at: )http://www.mofa.go.jp/fp/pc/page3e_000322.html

12 Japan Calling

Rajasthan Chief Minister Visits Japan

The Chief Minister of the State of Rajasthan in India, Ms. Vasundhara

Raje, visited Japan from April 4 to 8, 2015. During her visit, she had

meetings with Japanese entrepreneurs with an aim to attract Japanese

investment in the state of Rajasthan and to extend invitation for Japan to

be a partner state for the 'Resurgent Rajasthan Partnership Summit'

scheduled on November 19 and 20.

Chief Minister Raje made a courtesy call on the Prime Minister of Japan,

Mr. Shinzo Abe, in his office in Tokyo, on April 6. During her Japan-

visit, the Chief Minister also met the Japan Bank for International

Cooperation (JBIC) chief, Mr. Hiroshi Watanabe, Japan External Trade

Organization (JETRO) chairman, Mr. Hiroyuki Ishige, and Japan

International Cooperation Agency (JICA) president, Mr. Hideaki

Domichi.

METI concludes an MOC with Government of Rajasthan, on

Industrial Cooperation

On April 6, 2015, Mr. Yoichi Miyazawa, Minister of Economy, Trade

and Industry, had a meeting with Ms. Vasundhara Raje, the Chief

Minister of the State Government of Rajasthan, India, and both sides

signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) on Industrial

Cooperation in Rajasthan.

The conclusion of this MOC is part of the broader effort to achieve the

goal of doubling Japan's foreign direct investment as well as the number

of Japanese companies in India in five years, which was agreed upon at

the Japan-India Summit Meeting in September of 2014. This is the

second such initiative, following one with Andhra Pradesh, between the

METI minister and the chief minister of a state in India.

Rajasthan has a variety of industrial advantages, including proximity to

the National Capital Territory (NCT), the presence of a cluster of

Japanese motor vehicle plants, and the fact that it is one of the major

states in the industrial corridor that stretches from Delhi to Mumbai, all

of which offer the state a high potential for investment.

Furthermore, the current Rajasthan Chief Minister Raje is well regarded

for her efforts toward the development of industrial clusters, including

the first industrial park dedicated to Japanese industries (Neemrana

Industrial Park) through cooperation with JETRO when she was

Rajasthan chief minister from 2003 to 2008, which in turn led to many

Japanese companies opting to expand their business. Furthermore,

Ghilot Industrial Park, a new industrial park dedicated to Japanese

industries, is slated to be subdivided into lots for sale in the near future.

Since her second inauguration in 2013, as the industrial sector called for

the simplification of complex labor-related laws and deregulation, she

revised the labor laws in favor of industry in October 2014, which was

also well appreciated as a prompt response to the “Make in India”

campaign initiated by the Modi administration.

The MOC includes the following points: METI and JETRO will support

Japanese companies in developing their business in Rajasthan; the state

government of Rajasthan will improve the business environment for

Japanese industrial parks to meet global standards through the

introduction of incentives and infrastructure development; and

Japanese governmental organizations in India and the State

Government of Rajasthan will launch a policy dialogue between them

toward the development of the business environment. The conclusion of

this MOC is expected to further accelerate Japanese companies'

development of their business in Rajasthan.

Ms. Vasundhara Raje, Chief Minister of Rajasthan, made a courtesy call on Mr. Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan, on April 6, 2015

(Photo: Department of Information & Public Relations, Government of Rajasthan)

Ms. Vasundhara Raje, Chief Minister of Rajasthan, and Mr. Yoichi Miyazawa, Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan, signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) on Industrial Cooperation in Rajasthan, on April 6, 2015

(Photos: Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry [METI], Japan)

Japan Calling 11

12 Japan Calling

Mr. Saichiro Misumi, 99, a former Managing Director of the Japan-

India Association, was conferred the 'Padma Bhushan' award by the

Government of India, in recognition of his contribution to India-

Japan relations for almost seven decades.

The award was presented to Mr. Misumi by the Honourable

President of India, H.E. Mr. Pranab Mukherjee, at a function held at

the Rashtrapati Bhawan, New Delhi, on 30 March 2015.

The Padma Bhushan award is given to pre-eminent persons in the

fields of art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering,

trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, civil

service, etc.

In previous years, the Padma Bhushan has been conferred on the

following Japanese nationals: Late Mr. Yoshio Sakurauchi (1989),

Late Mr. Goro Koyama (1992), Mr. Yoshiro Mori (2004), Mr. Osamu

Suzuki (2007), and Mr. Minoru Hara (2009).

Padma Bhushan conferred on Mr. Saichiro Misumi,Former Managing Director, Japan-India Association

H.E. Mr. Pranab Mukherjee, Honourable President of India, presenting the Padma Bhushan Award to Mr. Saichiro Misumi, at a Civil Investiture Ceremony at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi, on March 30, 2015

(Photo courtesy: Rashtrapati Bhavan photos)

On 29th April 2015, the Government of Japan announced the foreign recipients of the 2015 Spring Imperial Decorations. Among 85 foreign

recipients are the following 4 Indian nationals.

The Presentation Ceremony, Investiture of the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star was held at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo on 8th

May 2015, when the foreign recipients were given an audience with His Majesty the Emperor of Japan.

1. are conferred in recognition of distinguished accomplishments of an individual. The Orders of the Rising Sun

Japanese Imperial Decorations Conferred upon 4 Indians

The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and

Silver Star to Mr. T K A Nair (75), Former

Advisor to Prime Minister, Former

Principal Secretary to Prime Minister,

Former Chairman, Public Enterprises

Selection Board, Former Chief Secretary to

Government of Punjab, for his contribution

to the enhancement of relations and the

promotion of friendship between Japan and

India. (Mr. T K A Nair attended the

presentation ceremony.)

The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and

Silver Star to Prof. Chintamani Nagesa

Ramachandra Rao (80), Former Director

of Indian Institute of Science, Honorary

President of Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for

Advanced Scientific Research, Bangalore,

Former Chair of the Japan-India Science

Council, for his contribution to promoting

academic interchange and mutual

understanding in science and technology

between Japan and India

The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and

Silver Rays to Mr. Nikunj Parekh (74),

President, Indo-Japanese Association,

Mumbai, Director, Bonsai Study Group of

Indo-Japanese Association, Mumbai,

Director, World Bonsai Friendship

Federation, Second Vice President, Bonsai

Clubs International, for his contribution to

promoting and presenting Japanese

Culture in IndiaMr. Nikunj Parekh

Japan Calling12

Mr. T K A Nair

Prof. C.N.R. Rao

2. are conferred in recognition The Orders of the Sacred Treasure

of accomplishments achieved by the lengthy service of an individual.

The Order of the Sacred Treasure, Gold and Silver Rays to

Mr. Topgay Bhutia (64), Former local employee of the Embassy of

Japan in India, for his contribution to activities of the Japanese

overseas establishment.

Exploring Japan: Sights of Summer in Japan

13Japan Calling

Japan is a spectacular destination to visit in any season, and offers many different attractions. Summer is the season of colorful fireworks and large scale

festivals, many with folk dancing, for local residents and visitors. In this issue, we bring you some interesting images depicting Japan during summertime.

To see more pictures or find information about travelling in Japan, visit the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) website .http://www.jnto.go.jp/

©Promotion Airport Environment Improvement Foundation / ©JNTO

Usuki Stone Buddha Fire Festival [Oita Prefecture]

Awa Dance Festival [Tokushima Prefecture]

©Tokushima Prefecture/©JNTO

Somen (noodles) [Saga Prefecture]

©Saga Prefecture/©JNTO

©Hiroshima Convention & Visitors Bureau

Hiroshima Yume-Minato Fireworks Display [Hiroshima Prefecture]

Surfing [Tokushima Prefecture]

©Tokushima Prefecture/©JNTO

Mt. Yotei and Sunflower field [Hokkaido Prefecture]

©JNTO

KOLKATA

Updates from Consulates

(Photo credit: Consulate General of Japan, Kolkata) (Photo credit: Consulate General of Japan, Kolkata)

Mrs. Junko Bhattacharya, an origami expert, teaching Origami to the students

at Don Bosco Ashalayam, Howrah, on 25th February 2015. 56 students of the

NGO were deeply engrossed in this magic of paper folding.

Japanese language students of Kolkata, and students from Momoyama Gakuin

University and Sophia University, at a meeting organised by the Nihongo Kaiwa

Kyookai Society, held at Sarat Samity, Kolkata, on 7th March 2015. Casual

exchanges and conversation took place between the students.

(Photo credit: Nihongo Kaiwa Kyokai Society)(Photo credit: Consulate General of Japan, Kolkata)

Members of the Nihongo Kaiwa Kyokai performing a Japanese song at the 30th In-Nichi Bunkasai - the Indo-Japan Cultural Festival, which aims to promote cultural relations between the two countries, held at the Birla Academy of Art and Culture, Kolkata, on 14th March 2015, with the participation of 200 audiences.

Mr. Kazumi Endo, Consul General of Japan in Kolkata, with representatives of the recipient NGO, at the Grant Contract Signing Ceremony for Grant Assistance for Grassroots Project, held at the Consulate General of Japan in Kolkata, on 13th March 2015. A grant of USD 104,795 was sanctioned to the NGO for the procurement of medical items and vehicles for capacity building of their newly established eye hospital.

Japan Calling16

CHENNAI

(Photo credit: Fujita Corporation)

Mr. Seiji Baba, Consul-General of Japan in Chennai (4th from left), cutting the tape with other guests at the New Model Launching Ceremony at India Yamaha Motors, SIPCOT Industrial Park, Oragadam, on April 18, 2015

(Photo credit: India Yamaha Motors)

Mr. Seiji Baba, Consul-General of Japan in Chennai (1st from left), interacting with other guests at the Groundbreaking Ceremony of a new out-patient department in the Institute of Child Health and Hospital in Chennai, being constructed under the Grant Assistance by the Government of Japan (approx. Rs.88.20 crore), on April 22, 2015

Mr. Seiji Baba, Consul-General of Japan in Chennai, making a first-kick at the Indo-Japan friendly football match, in the Indo-Japan Sports Meet commemorating the “Olympics and Paralympics TOKYO 2020”, organized by the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT), the Consulate General of Japan in Chennai, the Japan Association, Chennai, in collaboration with ABK-AOTS Dosokai, Tamil Nadu Centre, on March 22, 2015, at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Chennai

(Photo credit: The New Indian Express)

(Photo credit: Hitachi Automotive Systems)

Mr. Seiji Baba, Consul-General of Japan in Chennai (3rd from left), participating in the plant inauguration of Hitachi Automotive Systems, at One Hub Chennai, on April 16, 2015

Japan Calling 17

MUMBAI

Ms. Sarita Sundaram, President of the Teachers Association of Japanese (Left)

was awarded a Certificate of Commendation by Mr. Yoshiaki Ito, Consul-

General of Japan in Mumbai, for her contribution to promoting the friendship

between Japan and India, at the Consulate General of Japan in Mumbai, on 27

March 2015.

Mr. Mukesh Patel, President of the Indo-Japan Friendship Association, Gujarat

(Left), was awarded a Certificate of Commendation by Mr. Yoshiaki Ito, Consul

General of Japan in Mumbai, for his contribution to promoting the friendship

between Japan and India, at the Consulate General of Japan in Mumbai, on 20

March 2015.

(Photo Credit: Consulate General of Japan, Mumbai)

(Photo Credit: Consulate General of Japan, Mumbai)

A Japanese drum performance was held at the 'Cool Japan Festival 2015' at the

High Street Pheonix in Mumbai, on 7th February 2015. The event took place

between 6 to 8 February 2015, where over 80,000 visitors enjoyed the beauty of

Japanese cultural performances showcased on the stage, while purchasing and

trying Japanese products and enjoying delicious Japanese food.

(Photo credit: La Ditta Limited)

Dr. Deepak Tilak, Vice Chancellor of the Tilak Maharashtra Vidyapeeth (Left)

was awarded a Certificate of Commendation by Mr. Yoshiaki Ito, Consul-

General of Japan in Mumbai, for his contribution to promoting the friendship

between Japan and India, at the Tilak Maharashtra Vidyapeeth, Pune, on 14

April 2015.

(Photo Credit: Consulate General of Japan, Mumbai)

Japan Calling18

BENGALURU

(Photo credit: Office of the Honourable Governor of Karnataka)

Mr. Junichi Kawaue, Head of the Consulate of Japan in Bengaluru, paid a courtesy call on His Excellency Mr. Vajubhai Rudabhai Vala, Honourable Governor

of Karnataka, at the Vidhana Sauda, Bengaluru, on 30th April 2015.

(Photo credit: Consulate of Japan, Bengaluru)

A Japanese movie screening (ALWAYS - Sunset on Third Street-3) was held at the Presidency College, Bengaluru, on 16th April 2015. Prof. Dr. Muddu Vinay, Director and Principal, Presidency College (Front row, in black suit) was a distinguished guest at the screening.

Japan Calling 19

Key in “www.in.emb-japan.go.jp” to access the website of the Embassy of Japan, New Delhi.

Issued by:

Japan Information Centre, Embassy of Japan, 50-G, Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi-110021, Ph: 24122970~73 Fax: 24106976.

Consulate General of Japan, 55, M.N. Sen Lane, Tollygunge, Kolkata-700040, Tel: 24211970 Fax: 24211971.

Consulate General of Japan, No. 12/1 Cenetoph Road, 1st Street, Teynampet, Chennai-600018, Tel: 24323860-3 Fax: 24323859.

Consulate General of Japan, 1, M.L. Dahanukar Marg, Cumbala Hill, Mumbai-400026, Tel: 23517101 Fax: 23517120.

Consulate of Japan, 1st Floor, ‘Prestige Nebula’, 8-14, Cubbon Road, Bengaluru-560001, Tel: 40649999 Fax: 41660114.

Printed at Amar Ujala Publications Limited, C-21 & C-22, Sector 59, Noida-201301, India

FOR SUBSCRIPTION OR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:

For West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand and Orissa: The Consulate General of Japan in Kolkata

For Tamil Nadu, Pondicherry, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana: The Consulate General of Japan in Chennai

For Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa, Daman & Diu, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, Chhattisgarh and M.P.: The Consulate General of Japan in Mumbai

For Karnataka: The Consulate of Japan in Bengaluru

For remaining states and territories: Japan Information Centre, Embassy of Japan, New Delhi

FOR CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Please communicate the old as well as new address.

ORGANIZATIONS AFFILIATED WITH THE GOVERNMENT OF JAPAN

Japan Calling

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)

2nd Floor, Dr. Gopal Das Bhawan28, Barakhamba RoadNew Delhi 110 001

Tel: 4768-5500, 2371-4362 ~ 63Fax: 4768-5555http://www.jica.go.jp/india

/english/

Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC)

1st floor, The Metropolitan Hotel New DelhiBangla Sahib RoadNew Delhi 110 001

Tel: 4352-2900Fax: 4352-2950http://www.jbic.go.jp/en/about/office/new-delhi/

Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO)

4th Floor, Eros Corporate TowerNehru PlaceNew Delhi 110 019

Tel: 4168-3006Fax: 4168-3003http://www.jetro.go.jp/en/jetro/worldwide/asia/

The Japan Foundation New Delhi

5A, Ring RoadLajpat Nagar 4Near Moolchand Metro StationNew Delhi 110 024

Tel: 2644-29672644-2968/71/72Fax: 2644-2969http://www.jfindia.org.in/

New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO)7th Floor, Hotel Le Meridien Commercial TowerRaisina RoadNew Delhi 110 001

Tel: 4351-0101Fax: 4351-0102http://www.nedo.go.jp/english/india_office_index.html

FEEDBACK: Please send us your comments on and inquiries about the articles in this issue to: jpembjic@nd.mofa.go.jp

20

The Japanese Embassy's “Hello Japan Program” is designed to provide an interactive and hands-on experience that will help students

learn about the country. Through this Program, the students have the opportunity to explore and appreciate the Japanese culture,

traditions, society and lifestyle.

The Hello Japan Program, consisting of video and PowerPoint presentations and activities such as traditional clothing and calligraphy,

is a great way for students and teachers to discover all things Japanese.

To teachers and educators in the National Capital Region (NCR):If you are interested in coming to the Embassy in New Delhi on a weekday with your students to participate in this program, please send an

email to . Groups from secondary schools (Grade VI and above) only, please.jpemb.jic@nd.mofa.go.jp

Embassy of Japan offers the “Hello Japan Program”